Explore Northland in 5 days

Subtropical Northland or the "Far North" is a tourist mecca offering a uniquely New Zealand experience. Immerse yourself in the regions rich history and culture while exploring the contrasting coastlines and scenic beauty along the way. Take a journey along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway which follows a circular path around the peninsula, and is the most popular way to experience the region.

Drive to the Bay of Islands via the famous Hundertwasser-designed public toilet in Kawakawa.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Take a guided tour around New Zealand’s foremost historic site, learn Maori, watch a high-energy cultural performance or just wander around at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. This is where the founding document of our new nation was signed between the Maori Chiefs and the British Crown in 1840. The grounds include the Treaty House, a fully carved Maori Meeting House, one of the largest Maori War Canoes in the world, and Te Kongahu Museum of Waitangi which tells the story of Maori and European contact and the ongoing development of New Zealand as a nation.

Kerikeri

Kerikeri is known for its orchards, wineries and art galleries. Grab a bite to eat in one of the many local cafes and restaurants, or indulge in delicious handmade chocolates or limoncello at the Chocolate Factory. Every Sunday people gather at the Farmer's Markets to buy locally grown fruit and vegetables as well as other artisan foods. Historical highlights of Kerikeri are the Kerikeri Mission House, the country's oldest house built by John Butler in 1821, and the Mission’s Stone Store dating from 1832, New Zealand’s oldest stone building.

Hole in the RockDay 3

Hole in the RockDay 3

Hole in the Rock Cruise (Half Day)

Set off on a Bay of Islands cruise in search of dolphin and marine life. Experience natural wonders and stunning scenery as you journey to the end of Cape Brett to visit the famous Hole in the Rock.

Russell

Visit the charming town of Russell and explore the streets of New Zealand’s first capital. Once known as a rough frontier town, those long-ago whaling days of rum and debauchery seem like an ancient memory as you walk down peaceful streets lined with historic wooden buildings.

Cape ReingaDay 4

Cape ReingaDay 4

Cape Reinga is an ultimate northern New Zealand experience with the iconic Cape Reinga Lighthouse being a popular traveller's goal. See two oceans collide, as the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean in a spectacular swirl of currents and discover the spiritual 'place of leaping', where Maori spirits begin their final journey. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, sand board down the mighty Te Paki Sand Dunes before venturing along Ninety Mile Beach.

Waipoua Forest at night - learn the myths and legends

Learn the myths and legends of Waipoua Forest while paying homage to the majestic kauri trees. The spiritual environment of the forest provides a natural stage for an unforgettable encounter with some of the largest remaining kauri trees in the world. Here you will find the largest living kauri tree in the forest, Tane Mahuta "Lord of the Forest" who stands at an impressive 51 metres (150ft) tall.

Wairere BouldersDay 5

Wairere BouldersDay 5

Visit the only valley worldwide of its kind. The boulder valley, thought to be 2.8 million years old, was formed by a lava flow which turned into a basalt later. Erosion and a couple of huge cracks have led to a pile-up of thousands of boulders on the valley floor, some of which are 30m high. The track through the 1.5km valley goes over, around and under and boulders, and takes you through the rainforest and past many native trees, palms and ferns.